Photon Wavelength: Particle or Wave?

In summary, the conversation discusses the nature of electromagnetic radiation, specifically the behavior of photons. While modern quantum field theory states that photons are neither particles nor waves, there are situations where they can exhibit behavior similar to both. This phenomenon is known as wave-particle duality, but it is important to note that these behaviors are mutually exclusive and cannot be observed simultaneously. This concept is often referred to as 'quantum' and refers to objects, such as photons, that display qualities of both a particle and a wave.
  • #1
L4xord
10
0
I understand that electromagnetic radiation is a photon. But one thing that is continuing to bug me is the question how does a photon, which is defined as a particle not a wave, have a wavelength? Do photons travel as packets in some sort of a compression type wave similar to sound?
 
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  • #2
According to modern quantum field theory the photon is neither a particle nor a wave.

But there a situations (experiments) where we observe photons with a behavior as if they were particles. And there are (other) situations were we observe photons with a behavior as if they were waves.

Both behaviors are mutually exclusive, so the common term wave-particle-duality and the explanation that they are both is missleading. They a neither.
 
  • #3
tom.stoer said:
According to modern quantum field theory the photon is neither a particle nor a wave.

But there a situations (experiments) where we observe photons with a behavior as if they were particles. And there are (other) situations were we observe photons with a behavior as if they were waves.

Both behaviors are mutually exclusive, so the common term wave-particle-duality and the explanation that they are both is missleading. They a neither.

I think I've heard of this. Is this classification of an object displaying qualities of both a particle and a wave (such as a photon) a 'quantum'? Like a bundle of energy.
 
  • #4
Yes, it's 'quantum'. But be carefulk: wave-like and particle-like are mutually exclusive and cannot be observed at the same time.
 

What is a photon?

A photon is a fundamental particle of light that carries energy and has no mass. It is also known as an elementary particle or a quantum of light.

Is a photon a particle or a wave?

According to the theory of quantum mechanics, a photon exhibits properties of both a particle and a wave. It behaves like a particle when interacting with matter, but also exhibits wave-like behavior, such as interference and diffraction, when traveling through space.

How is the wavelength of a photon determined?

The wavelength of a photon is determined by its frequency, which is directly related to its energy. The higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation c = λν, where c is the speed of light, λ is the wavelength, and ν is the frequency.

Can photons have different wavelengths?

Yes, photons can have different wavelengths depending on their frequency and energy. This is why we can see different colors of light, as each color corresponds to a different wavelength of light.

What is the significance of the dual nature of photons?

The dual nature of photons is significant in understanding the behavior of light and its interactions with matter. It helps explain phenomena such as the photoelectric effect and the emission of light from atoms. It also plays a crucial role in the development of technologies such as lasers and solar cells.

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